The following are the full answers to the questions put to Callan Tham by I-S Magazine for their June 12 article. Callan is a new member of Aware.
Callan works in IT Networking
Why have you joined Aware now? Was it solely because of the saga?
No. I have always been supportive of AWARE and their activities before this, but chose to step up and contribute when the story of the takeover broke. AWARE’s track record over the 24 years of their existence speaks for itself, and I feel that I can contribute my efforts into helping the organization move forward.
What do you hope from the organization going forward?
Besides continuing their enthusiastic work for the women of Singapore as well as raising awareness and research for issues affecting women, I also hope to see continued support from the members, especially those who have joined recently, as well as a concerted effort from AWARE to harness the energies of these members. Perhaps also a relook at what feminism means in the current context, as times and mindsets have changed.
As a new member, how do you intend to help?
In whatever way I can; my experience is in the IT networking field, and if they can make use of that experience I will be more than willing to pitch in.
As a man, what do you think you can bring to the organization?
I can bring a different perspective to feminist and women issues, both inside and out of the organization. The involvement of men in AWARE cannot be understated, as it means that feminist issues are not just affecting women alone.
As a concerned citizen, what in your opinion is the biggest challenge facing Singaporean women today?
In my opinion, it is one that is challenging to both women and men alike: how to balance a successful career with a family. There is still a fair bit of pressure for women to place a priority on family over her career, and sometimes many would feel that they have to choose one or the other when it should not be the case.
And even though it is not the biggest challenge in my opinion, I think the obsession with body shape issues is a close second. The fashion industry is not helping obviously, with the standards of beauty promulgated as an unhealthy shade of “slim”. It is not healthy physically or mentally to portray beauty in such a way.
How would you help with gender equality in Singapore going forward?
One of the best ways I can help with is promoting awareness of the issues amongst my friends and contacts, and by encouraging open-minded debate and discussion on them. Both men and women must be involved if true gender equality is to be achieved, and without a good understanding of the issues involved no one can make any informed decisions at all.
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